Singkhon border crossing to become permanent checkpoint for agriculture trade

Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Singkhon border crossing, a vital point of trade between Thailand and Myanmar, is set to become a permanent checkpoint, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The move is anticipated to enhance the transportation and trading of agricultural goods, including fisheries products.

Minister Thamanat Prompow highlighted the need for the Singkhon border crossing, currently only accessible to Thai and Myanmar nationals, to adopt hygiene standards and ease congestion in loading and unloading goods. He flagged the necessity of facilities, technology, and standardised processes to manage the existing trade volumes effectively.

The ministry has directed multiple agencies to collaborate with the provincial governor to formulate measures governing the import and export of agricultural products, particularly fisheries items. The governor is set to convene a meeting with these agencies tomorrow to resolve these issues.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will engage in dialogue with the Myanmar government to advocate for the Singkhon checkpoint’s opening.”

Thamanat also met local fishermen yesterday to discuss their challenges, including the high cost of petrol and the plummeting prices of fishery products.

“It was a beneficial opportunity to directly address the fishermen’s concerns. As such, I’ve authorised the formation of a committee to examine each of their requests.”

Regarding the impending drought during the dry season, he stated that he had instructed ministry agencies to promote integrated farm procedures and knowledge to mitigate water shortages.

Prachuap Khiri Khan, boasting 56 fishing communities and the longest coastline measuring 224.8 kilometres along the Gulf of Thailand, is a critical region for the country’s fisheries sector, reported Bangkok Post.

In related news, to safeguard consumers against potential exploitation during the upcoming Songkran festivities, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s provincial authorities have unleashed a new campaign. Led by Deputy Governor Komkrit Charoenpatanasombat, the crackdown aims to ensure fair pricing at fuel stations across the province.